Homemade Monkey Bread (aka Cinnamon Roll Bites)

ByMia Harper
Homemade Monkey Bread topped with cinnamon sugar, fresh from the oven.

Homemade Monkey Bread, often affectionately known as Cinnamon Roll Bites, is a delightful dessert that combines warm, gooey flavors with a fun pull-apart texture. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner. With its comforting cinnamon aroma and soft, buttery dough, this dish is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Let’s dive into the sweet details of this easy recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10 servings
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 230
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 360mg

Why Make This Homemade Monkey Bread (aka Cinnamon Roll Bites)

Homemade Monkey Bread is a quick and simple dessert that brings everyone together. Its irresistibly soft texture paired with the sweet warmth of cinnamon makes it a comforting choice for any occasion. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for spontaneous baking sessions. The joy of pulling apart the soft, sugary pieces filled with rich flavors adds an element of fun that kids and adults alike will love. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a brunch or treat your family to something special, this dessert is guaranteed to leave everyone smiling.

How to Make Homemade Monkey Bread (aka Cinnamon Roll Bites)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan to help the monkey bread release easily after baking.

  • Step 2: Mixing

    In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon, stirring them together to create a fragrant cinnamon sugar blend.

  • Step 3: Forming the Bites

    Take each biscuit, cut it into quarters, and roll these pieces into small balls. This step creates those delightful bite-sized pieces that will soak up all the delicious flavors.

  • Step 4: Coating and Assembling

    Toss the rolled biscuit balls in the sugar-cinnamon mixture, ensuring each piece gets a lovely coat. Layer these coated biscuit balls into the greased bundt pan.

  • Step 5: Making the Sauce

    In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Drizzle this luscious mixture over the packed biscuit balls in the pan.

  • Step 6: Baking

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and puffy. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water!

  • Step 7: Cooling and Serving

    Once baked, allow the monkey bread to cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a plate for a beautiful presentation, then serve it warm.

How to Serve Homemade Monkey Bread (aka Cinnamon Roll Bites)

Serve warm, allowing guests to pull apart the pieces as they enjoy. You can complement this dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream cheese icing for added indulgence. Perfect for brunch, baby showers, or just a cozy night in, this dish is versatile for any gathering.

How to Store Homemade Monkey Bread (aka Cinnamon Roll Bites)

Allow any leftover monkey bread to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For extended storage, you can refrigerate it for about a week. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven to regain that soft texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Monkey Bread (aka Cinnamon Roll Bites)

  • Consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the biscuit balls for an extra crunch.
  • Mix in some dried fruit or chocolate chips for fun flavor variations.
  • Adjust the sugar and cinnamon ratio to suit your taste preferences; some love extra sweetness!
  • Be sure to use enough cooking spray or grease the bundt pan well to prevent sticking.

Delicious Variations

  • Chocolate Monkey Bread: Incorporate chocolate chips into the biscuit dough for a decadent twist.
  • Maple Bacon Monkey Bread: Add crumbled cooked bacon and drizzle with maple syrup for a savory and sweet combination.
  • Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread: Substitute some of the sugar with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired version.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of refrigerated?
    Yes! Homemade biscuit dough will work beautifully, and you can customize the flavors even further.

  • What can I use instead of biscuits?
    You can use croissant dough or even cinnamon rolls for a different texture and flavor.

  • Is it okay to make the dough ahead of time?
    It’s best to prepare the monkey bread the day of baking, but you can mix the sugar and cinnamon ahead of time to save a few minutes.

  • How do I prevent the monkey bread from getting too dry?
    Be careful not to over-bake. The edges should be golden and the middle soft, which will help keep it moist.

  • Can I freeze leftover monkey bread?
    Yes, you can freeze portions by wrapping them tightly and store them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Homemade Monkey Bread is a delightful treat that combines convenience and comfort. It’s a recipe perfect for sharing and full of sweet nostalgia. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create an eye-catching dessert that will leave everyone wanting more. So gather your ingredients, invite some loved ones, and enjoy the bliss that comes from pulling apart these sweet cinnamon bites! Enjoy your baking adventure!

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